Ebonyi Assembly frowns at unlawful  mining activities, summons company

2026-03-17 - 15:33

By Jeff Agbodo, Abakaliki The Ebonyi State House of Assembly has condemned the activities of miners without adhering to safety and due process in the state. The Chairman State House of Assembly Committee on Solid Mineral Development Hon Ifeanyi Nwakpu frowned at the activities of Jeo Royal Mining Company which operates without adhering to Mining act. He said that the activities would cause agony of material and human loss to both the government and hosting community of Enyim Agalegu Ndufu Alike Ikwo. Nwakpu stated this during unscheduled oversight function visit to the company where he ordered that the company should appear before the Committee on Thursday 19th March 2026 at Assembly Committee. He said that the invitation was for the company to come and defend their actions,, saying that the company should bring all relevant documents that guided their operations including environmental impact assessment. The committee chairman maintained that from the scenes on ground, Jeo Royal Mining Company has failed in providing the safety measures as contained in the mining act and assured that the State under able leadership of Governor Nwifuru will continue to ensure safety of the citizens. Nwakpu equally expressed concern on the activities of artisans in Enyigba Ishiagu Community in Abakaliki local government area which he said was driven by greed and quest for quick financial gains and warned them to desist from such and close the pits immediately to avoid Mining pits collapsed. Responding, the Manager of the company represented by translator of the company Judy Chen said they are working towards keeping Mining acts and keep to the agreements with the hosting community. She commended the House Committee for the visit and appreciates the state government for the conducive atmosphere provided with security for mining companies to operate.